to autograph / sign
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to autograph
To put one's name or mark on something in order to confirm authorship, authenticity, or presence, especially on works of art, books, or official documents.
Die Autorin wird nach der Lesung Bücher für ihre Fans signieren.
The author will autograph books for her fans after the reading.
Although 'signieren' looks like the English 'to sign', in German it is used almost only for autographs on books, photos, or works of art. It is not used for signing contracts or official documents.
Der Fußballstar signierte nach dem Spiel die Trikots seiner Fans.
After the game, the soccer star autographed his fans' jerseys.
The verb 'signieren' (to autograph/sign) is closely related to the noun 'die Signatur' (signature). A signature is the name or mark that one leaves when signing or autographing something.
Die Signatur des Künstlers befindet sich in der unteren rechten Ecke des Bildes.
The artist's signature is in the lower right corner of the painting.
Typically, things that have personal or artistic value are autographed. Common objects are: a book, a photo, a work of art, or a T-shirt.
Er ließ sich sein neues Album von der Sängerin signieren.
He had his new album autographed by the singer.
to draw / sign
'zeichnen' and 'signieren' can both mean that someone puts their name on something. 'zeichnen' is especially used for official documents, for example contracts or deeds. It emphasizes legal or formal approval. 'signieren' is often used with books, works of art, or photos, when the name shows authenticity or identifies the creator. With official documents, 'signieren' can also occur, but 'unterzeichnen' or the formal 'zeichnen' sounds more natural there. The risk of confusion lies in the fact that in both cases a signature is added, but the purpose is often different.
Nach der Lesung signiert der Autor viele Bücher.
After the reading, the author autographs many books.
Die Mitarbeiterin zeichnet den Antrag, bevor sie ihn weiterleitet.
The employee signs the application before forwarding it.